Q. How do I modify my user registration information?

A. If you need to change your user information after registering with the Atlas, please e-mail us at info@vahealthycommunities.com with your name as well as the information you would like to change (e.g., name, address, e-mail, etc.). We will make the requested changes to your account.

Q. I am experiencing problems printing a map using the “printable map” feature. The legend will not print properly on the paper. How can I fix the problem?

A. If the legend does not appear on the printed copy of the map, you will need to check your internet options. If you are using Internet Explorer, click on “Tools” at the top of the toolbar. Click on “Internet Options” and select the “Advanced” tab. Scroll down the menu until you see “printing.” Click on the box labeled “print background color and images” and click “apply” followed by “okay.” If you are still experiencing printing problems, e-mail us at info@vahealthycommunities.com.

Q. When using the “printable map” feature, the map will not print on one page. How can I alter the format, so that map will print completely on one page?

A. Make sure when you print that you select “landscape” orientation under printer preferences.

Q. Why are rates for certain counties and cities significantly higher than the Virginia average?

A. Rates for ambulatory sensitive conditions, crime, health, etc. are higher in areas where population is low. For example, rates for ambulatory sensitive conditions are calculated using the following equation: (Discharges by diagnosis by ZIP/population) X 100,000. Therefore, rates for Galax City may appear high when compared with state averages, because the total population for Galax City is only 6,650. Since there were 43 asthma discharges in the City, the rate is 646.62 (43/6,650*100,000). Again, the rate of psychoses seems high at 1,819.55, because there were 121 discharges for the City (121/6,650*100,000). In comparison, Virginia’s overall psychoses discharge rate is 443.6 (31884/ 7,187,734*100,000). Thus, the rate for Virginia is lower in comparison to some counties/cities as a result of a significantly larger denominator.

Q. Are data for the various ambulatory sensitive conditions based on where healthcare facilities are located?

A. No, the Virginia Hospital & Healthcare Association compiles ambulatory sensitive condition data according to the ZIP code where a patient resides.